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Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
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Pain Assessment in Older Adults
1Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Florida, PO Box 100197-HSC, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
The Nursing Clinics of North America
|August 7, 2017
Summary
Assessing pain in older adults is crucial. This study offers a model for understanding pain causes and consequences, plus tool recommendations for effective pain management in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pain Management
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- Pain is a prevalent issue among older adults, necessitating improved assessment strategies.
- Decades of research and expert guidelines exist to support healthcare providers in pain assessment for this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a conceptual model detailing the causes and consequences of pain in older adults.
- To elucidate the relationship between acute and persistent pain states.
- To recommend validated pain assessment tools, including those for individuals with cognitive impairments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of empirical studies.
- Analysis of expert panel statements and existing guidelines.
- Development of a conceptual model for pain in older adults.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive model illustrating pain's etiology and impact in the elderly.
- Clarification of the transition from acute to persistent pain.
- Identification and categorization of recommended pain assessment instruments.
Conclusions:
- Effective pain assessment in older adults requires understanding the multifactorial nature of pain.
- Specific tools are available to aid clinicians, even for those with cognitive deficits.
- This work provides a framework to enhance pain management strategies for geriatric patients.
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